Purpose

The purpose of this report is to present Cabinet with the outcome of the Inspection of Local Authority Children Services (ILACS) which took place 10-21 November 2025 and published 12 January 2026 and provide the DfE update on the statutory direction to Herefordshire LA (appendix A).

Decision

That a) Cabinet note the improvement made in Children’s Services and the positive report completed by the DFE appointed commissioner; and

b) Cabinet note the formal lifting of the statutory direction placed on Children’s Services.

Alternative options considered

None.